← Military & Defence

Military Personnel in Ceremonies

Photos capture military personnel during formal ceremonies and training drills, reflecting discipline, unity, and important traditions within the armed forces.

U.S. Marines

The Community College of the Air Force Wright-Patterson Class of 2022 marches into their graduation ceremony June 15, 2022, at the National Museum of the Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Forty Airmen earned associate degrees from the worlds largest community college system.

Army Reserve Sgt. Malik Seaton stays focused while he waits for his turn to compete during the 2022 Best Squad Competition's M4 Rifle Qualification event at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, on May 16, 2022. Approximately 50 Soldiers from across the nation travelled to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, to compete in the 2022 U.S. Best Squad Competition from May 14-21, 2022. The 2022 BSC is an annual competition that brings together the best Soldiers and squads from across the U.S. Army Reserve to earn the title of "Best Warrior" and "Best Squad" among their peers. Competitors are evaluated on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-focused events that test their technical and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue. (Army Reserve photo by Sgt. David Barrette)

U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) take a group photo with country music singer Ayla Brown on Nov. 14 at Camp Leatherneck, Helmand province, Afghanistan. U.S. Marines with 9th ESB, 1st MLG (FWD) demonstrated various military equipment used to support the International Security Assistance Force.

Two French soldiers show their excitement while representing the French Detachment in the Viking games, an event that test stamina, physical strength and endurance at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 12, 2024. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion "Task Force Viking" hosted the games, featuring a range of team-based activities that tested participants' stamina, speed, strength, and endurance.

An Advanced Individual Training student salutes the American flag as part of the Petroleum and Water Departments 33rd Wreath Laying Ceremony in honor of the 14th Quartermaster Detachment on a rainy day Feb. 23, 2024, at the 14ths Water Training Site and Memorial Marker at Fort Gregg-Adams, Va. This annual event aims to remember the sacrifices and bravery of the Soldiers who have served in this Army Reserve water purification detachment out of Greensburg, Pa. On Feb. 25, 1991, an Iraqi SCUD missile exploded its half-ton warhead inside the Dhahran barracks in Saudi Arabia, where the 14th Quartermaster Detachment and other U.S. Soldiers were located. Army

Marines welcome Tuskegee Airman, Harry Quinton, at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Virginia, April 23, 2022. The event was held to show respect and remembrance to the veterans for their service and sacrifice as well as give them a tour of the Museum.

Members of the Leavenworth High School junior ROTC Color Guard prepare to retire the colors at the end of USD 207's Freedom Walk. The annual event is the school district's way to honor those who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Leonardo Macedo Jr., accounting chief, Comptroller, Headquarters and Service and Battalion (HQSVCBN), U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), reports to Capt. Daniel W. Chow, company commander, Headquarters Company, HQSVCBN, MARFORPAC, during the Aito Course Pinning Ceremony in Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Sept 9, 2022. The event provided a bilateral training opportunity between the French Armed Forces and Marines with MARFORPAC. The nine Marines and Sailor from Headquarters and Service Battalion participated in the bilateral training with the French Armed Forces in order to strengthen relationships with the region. The courses name comes from the Tahitian word aito, which means warrior.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Phillip Ash, commanding officer of 1st Marine Corps District, speaks to Marines at a social event during Maryland Fleet Week and Flyover Baltimore 2022, in Baltimore, Sept. 6. Maryland Fleet Week and Flyover Baltimore is an annual public event that celebrates the contributions of the U.S. sea services and maritime capabilities from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. More than 2,300 service members participated, engaging and assisting with ship tours, live bands and static equipment displays.

051227-A-2718K-092. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Mosul Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Air Force basic trainees, 331st Training Squadron, Flight 677, for a line waiting for permission to enter the food serving line to eat lunch during basic military training Sept. 20, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Beth Abbott, Weapons Company first sergeant, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, dismisses Marines to their families during a deployment homecoming aboard Camp Lejeune, Oct. 9, 2022. Marines and Sailors assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit returned home after completing a seven-month deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. Naval Sixth Fleet area of operations.

Tough Ombres from the 90th Sustainment Brigade conduct uniform inspections during battle assembly on Camp Robinson located in N. Little Rock Arkansas on Dec. 10, 2022. A tremendous amount of pride and honor comes with wearing a military service uniform decorated with the Tough Ombre insignia and crest. Every patch, ribbon, medal, pin, or button on their uniform tells a story about where that Tough Ombre has been and what theyve accomplished on duty. Conducting inspections and ensuring uniforms are precise and pristine displays the type of good order and discipline that the Tough Ombre legacy demands.

DM-SC-86-06538. Base: Usmc Recruit Depot,Parris Island State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Lance Cpl. Albert A. Diaz, mascot handler, right, and retired U.S. Marine Col. and NASA Astronaut, Douglas G. Hurley, left, discuss the importance of the mascot at Marine Barracks Washington D.C., on Jan. 30, 2023. Hurley was a fighter pilot and test pilot in the U.S. Marine Corps and was selected as an astronaut for NASA in 2000.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Timothy S. Brady Jr, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment Commanding Officer, 3d Marine Division, gives remarks after a 9/11 memorial hike on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 9, 2022. Marines with 3d MLR paid tribute and remembrance to the victims of Sept. 11, 2001, by conducting an 11 km hike.

040321-F-2902B-005. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Camp Babylon Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Chief Master-at-Arms Mikel Meister walks through sideboys as part of a chief petty officer pinning ceremony held at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Washington Oct. 21, 2022. Fourteen chief petty officers received their pins and combination covers during the ceremony. (U.S Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ian Zagrocki)

A French Soldier conducts a band during a ceremony at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, Belleau, France, May 29, 2022. This Memorial Day ceremony was held to commemorate the 104th anniversary of the Battle of Belleau Wood. The visit is to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their respective countries during World War I.

Soldiers with the 3rd Cavalry Regiment sit at the position of attention while answering questions during a board at the III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition 2022 at Fort Hood, Texas, June 25, 2022. The III Armored Corps pulled only the best from across its divisions and separate brigades to compete in this years inaugural competition. The best squad goes on to compete at the U.S. Army Forces Command competition at Fort Hood in August.

220518-N-UD000-1013 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (May 18, 2022) Master Chief Gunners Mate Arnaz Murphy dons chief cover during a pinning ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), May 18, 2022. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable warfighting capability as the flagship of a carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Carlos Ruiz, the 20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speaks with Marines with Recruiting Substation East Los Angeles, Recruiting Station Los Angeles, during a visit in Los Angeles, Feb. 5. During his visit, Ruiz spoke with local recruiters to gain insight into recruiting operations in the local area. Marine Corps

U.S. Army Spc. Nathaniel Miska, assigned to the U.S. Army National Guard, is inspected by Sgt. Maj. Julie Guerra, the Department of the Army G-2 Sgt. Maj., while competing in the 2022 Best Squad Competition at the Pentagon Library and Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. The competition tests the squads proficiency in their warrior tasks and battle drills and identifies the most cohesive, highly trained, disciplined and fit team - ready to fight and win - while demonstrating commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

A roleplayer offers U.S. Marines with 1st Civil Affairs Group a watermelon during a simulated patrol at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 21, 2022. 1st CAG Marines must receive realistic and challenging civil affairs training in a field environment to maintain unit readiness. One of the prioritized objectives is to have reserve integration with active duty forces to support I Marine Expeditionary Force operations. One of the prioritized objectives is to have reserve integration with active duty forces to support I Marine Expeditionary Force operations.

Recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, wait to get their uniforms marked for alterations during an initial uniform fitting at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 21, 2022. Tailors checked measurements and marked adjustments to ensure that uniforms are fit for use during graduation and following training.

030307-D-9880W-001. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Army JROTC Cadets competing in the 2022 Junior Leadership Bowl found time to explore the National Mall and Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. on June 21. A highlight for many of the Cadets was watching Soldiers guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witnessing the Changing of the Guard. Four Army JROTC Cadets were also chosen to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb. | Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

221009-M-BQ292-1047 (Oct. 9, 2022) Service members gather for the church service Bless the Fleet as part of San Francisco Fleet Week (SFFW). SFFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience Americas sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service effects, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of the city and its surrounding areas.

Caucasian soldier using cell phone in airport

NAVAL BASE GUAM (Oct. 24, 2022) Sailors, civilians, and military families gathered to witness the initiation of several of the regions newest chief petty officers during a pinning ceremony at Top o the Mar onboard U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) in Nimitz Hill Oct. 21. The 13 newly pinned chiefs, represented the following commands: - NBG - Commander, Joint Region Marianas- Naval Hospital Guam- 30th Naval Construction Regiment- Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 - Naval Recruiting Office Guam- Priority Management Office- Naval Munitions Command East Asia Division Unit Guam and - Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron 3/Military Sealift Command GuamAs chief petty officer selectees they endured six weeks of chief formation, which included physical training, naval heritage education, honing of the Navys core values, and leadership and teamwork training sessions. (U.S. Navy Photos by LSSCS Christian Dadino)

Master Sgt. Jakeith L. Robinson out of the 552d Air Control Wing, Tinker Air Force Base, was awarded the Outstanding Airmen of the Year- First Sgt. of the Year category award by Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of Air Combat Command on April 28. OAY award winners were selected based on their performance and achievements put forward by members of their leadership.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Cheyenne Her, Airman Leadership School class 22-G class leader, sings the national anthem during the graduation of ALS class 22-G, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Oct. 13, 2022. Graduates lead the ceremony in multiple military traditions, such as the singing of the national anthem and the Air Force song, and the Airmans Creed.

Saniyah Tabake-Dural, Ben Eielson High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadet, prepares to create an archway entrance for Veterans to walk through during the Ben Eielson HS Veterans Day Breakfast, Nov. 10, 2022. Active duty, Guardsmen, retirees, including school staff who are military retirees, and military families were in attendance. Members of the 168th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Alaska Air National Guard prepared breakfast for military Veterans during the local event.

050819-A-0575B-050. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Bagram Airfield State: Parwan Country: Afghanistan (AFG) Scene Major Command Shown: CJTF76

ABH1(AW/SW/IW) Darlene Rule, assigned to USS Wasp (LHD-1) re-enlists aboard the Battleship Wisconsin in Downtown Norfolk on Wednesday, May 25, 2022. The ceremony was hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum as part of their military ceremonies program that is available to area commands without cost. The museum is located next to the Battleship Wisconsin in Downtown Norfolk, Virginia.

U.S. Marines with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the USS Bataan (LHD-5) as well as other members of military and government organizations pay respects at the 9/11 Memorial site after a 9/11 Freedom Run during Fleet Week New York 22, in New York City, May 25, 2022. As a part of Fleet Week New York 22, the Marines of Special Purpose Marine-Air Ground Task Force Fleet Week New York engage in special events throughout New York City and the Tri-State area showcasing sea service technologies, future innovation, and connecting with citizens. Fleet Week New York brings together more than 2,000 service members from the Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard offering live band performances, military vehicle and equipment displays, and other community relations projects.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Symone White, a network administrator with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, reenlists as a part of the Commandants Retention Program (CRP) aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), in the Atlantic Ocean, July 26, 2022. The CRP is focused on retaining the most talented First Term Marines by streamlining the reenlistment process and offering meaningful incentives to reenlist. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 324th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Sept 7-8, 2022. Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, reviewed the ceremony.

Nearly 20 Soldiers from Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and the 531st Hospital Center were formally welcomed into the U.S. Armys Noncommissioned Officer Corps at an NCO Induction Ceremony at Fort Campbells Wilson Theater, June 27.

DM-SC-85-08913. Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

110417-N-RM525-264KINGSTON, Jamaica (April 17, 2011) Sisters from the Missionaries of Charity of Jamaica sing hymns from the Bible during afternoon church services on Palm Sunday aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20). Comfort is deployed as part of Continuing Promise 2011, a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to the Caribbean, Central and South America.

U.S. Marines with Recruiting Station Orange County participate in a reenlistment ceremony for Sgt. Jamir Walton at the Orange County Great Park of Irvine, Irvine, California on Oct. 1, 2022. A reenlistment is a major event in the career of an enlisted Marine that renders an appropriate ceremony to be held to honor their decision to continue to serve their country.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Daniel Fullerton, the chaplain of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), talks with Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Sailors with the amphibious dock landing ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), during a Roman Catholic Ash Wednesday service aboard the USS Green Bay, in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 14, 2024. Chaplain Fullerton arrived from the USS America to give Marines and Sailors on the USS Green Bay the opportunity to practice their faith and strengthen their spiritual fitness while underway. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Marine Corps

220909-N-OX321-1149 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (Sept. 9, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Aircraft Handling) Bryson Atkins, from Maryville, Tenn., accepts the U.S. flag from the Flag Detail on behalf of the Naval Air Station Sigonella Fire and Emergency Services department during the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony held on NAS Sigonella, Sept. 9, 2022. The ceremony marks the 21st anniversary of the terrorist attacks and honors those who lost their lives that day and the heroic efforts of emergency personnel. NAS Sigonellas strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Idris N. Turay, the sergeant major of Marine Air-Ground Task Force 7 (MAGFT-7) Ripper”, addresses the Marines aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD2) in the Pacific Ocean, June 19, 2022. Ripper leadership talks through the importance of the Marines role in advancing relationships with U.S. partners and increasing coalition Naval Warfighting interoperability, competency and lethality.

Former Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Pitts stands at parade rest during a Medal of Honor ceremony for Pitts at the White House in Washington, D.C., July 21, 2014. (DoD News

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits Jarian Green, front, and Lester Raymond-Garcia, back, with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, participate in a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 1, 2022. The purpose of the MCMAP test is to ensure recruits' accuracy and proficiency in tan belt techniques - the first of five belts a Marine can earn. Green was recruited out of Recruiting Station Houston, Texas, and Raymond-Garcia was recruited out of Recruiting Station Dallas, Texas.

Major Gen. Matthew Baker, center, commanding general, 88th Readiness Division, administers the oath of enlistment to more than 30 future Soldiers during a ceremony prior to the Minnesota Twins game Aug. 29, 2022, in Minneapolis.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Albert J. Goldberg, off-going commander of 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, receives recognition from friends and family during the battalion change of command ceremony on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, on May 27, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Albert J. Goldberg was relieved of his duties as battalion commander of 3d Reconnaissance Battalion by Lt. Col. Brian T. Spillane after two years of command.

Cipher company conducted their change of command. At the ceremony, they said farewell to Captain Zachary Kambel as he heads into a new position with the Multi-Domain Taskforce. The company welcomed their new commander Captain Joseph Womack. We wish the best of luck to Captain Kambel and his family, and want to extend a warm welcome to Captain Womack and his family as the newest members of the Spearhead battalion!

Tech Sgt. Emilia Martin, Officer Training School instructor for the Jeanne M. Holm Center for Officer Accessions and Citizen Development, trains students from Commissioned Officer Training class 09-05 on proper saluting at the Officer Training School parade grounds at Maxwell AFB, Ala., 1 July 2009.

One U.S. Marine Gives Another a Haircut at a Small, Austere Combat Outpost in Afghanistan's Helmand Province

The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Wisconsin Army National Guard, conducted a change-of-responsibility ceremony, August 7, 2022 at its headquarters company at Camp Douglas, WI. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. John L. Dietzler relinquished responsibility of the brigade to Command Sgt. Maj. Aaron J. Johnson.

Louisiana State Trooper watches over a demonstration in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA.

U.S. Air Force Col. Dan Cooley 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing incoming commander, shakes hands with attendees of his change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 7, 2022. The wing provides rapid global mobility support en route in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East through aircraft maintenance, aerial port operations, command and control, expeditionary aircrew support, and aeromedical evacuation.

Sailors assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) observe University of Michigan's Naval Officer Reserve Training Corps midshipmen conduct a color guard rehearsal while visiting the university's stadium, The Big House, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, September 2, 2022. Twelve Ford Sailors traveled to Michigan for the ships annual namesake visit to learn about the legacy of President Gerald R. Ford and connect with local community members in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Albion.

Nearly 20 Soldiers from Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and the 531st Hospital Center were formally welcomed into the U.S. Armys Noncommissioned Officer Corps at an NCO Induction Ceremony at Fort Campbells Wilson Theater, June 27.

Sunburst Youth Challenge Academy Class 30 Cadet Marcelino Garcia, right, listens to a briefing by U.S. Air Force Capt. Kaity Toner, public affairs officer for the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, during an outreach event, Sept. 30, 2022, at Los Alamitos Army Airfield on Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, California. Sunburst is a National Guard Youth Challenge Program located on the base and facilitated by the California Military Departments Task Force Torch youth and community programs directorate. Living and going to school on the installation affords cadets opportunities to interact with service members daily and when the base supports visiting military units and special events such as the Pacific Airshow.

Sunburst Youth Challenge Academy Class 30 Cadet Marcelino Garcia, right, listens to a briefing by U.S. Air Force Capt. Kaity Toner, public affairs officer for the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, during an outreach event, Sept. 30, 2022, at Los Alamitos Army Airfield on Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, California. Sunburst is a National Guard Youth Challenge Program located on the base and facilitated by the California Military Departments Task Force Torch youth and community programs directorate. Living and going to school on the installation affords cadets opportunities to interact with service members daily and when the base supports visiting military units and special events such as the Pacific Airshow.

US Army Lieutenant General John M. Pickler (Center), CHIEF of STAFF, Forces Command, Fort McPherson, Georgia, receives a flag from a selected member of the Boy Scouts of America as a team member from the Army's Golden KNights Parachute Team stands by to recieve it to commemorate the Team's jump into Centennial park in downtown Atlanta, GA., as part of the Atlanta Council Boy Scout Show. Base: Atlanta State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, pose for a group photo on Camp Pendleton, California, May 23, 2022.

030118-F-0558K-003. Base: Barksdale Air Force Base State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

NAVAL BASE GUAM (Sept. 1, 2021) - Lt. Cmdr. Brian Matic relieved Cmdr. Constancia Dean as commanding officer of Navy Reserve Center (NRC) Guam during a change of command ceremony held at the U.S. Naval Base Guam Chapel. Formerly known as Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Guam, NRC Guam provides administrative, logistical, and medical support to nine Navy Reserve units, comprised of over 230 Navy Reservists residing and drilling in eight different countries and Guam.

The HHB, 32d AAMDC command team contributes a charge to the ceremonial grog during the Saint Barbara's Social, December 3rd at the Plaza Hotel in El Paso, Texas.Grog ceremonies are a military ball tradition and normally involve contributing any number of spirits or odd substances to a large punch bowl and mixing for the purpose of toasts.

Marine Safety Unit Baton Rouge - New Orleans Flood Operations - Personnel - 26-HK-381-27. Hurricane Katrina

Soldiers of the 2-151st Infantry Battalion Liaison Monitoring Teams (LMTs) meet with actors portraying local residents, as part of a training exercise during KFOR 31, in Hohenfels Training Area, Germany, on Oct. 15, 2022. KFOR 31 is a multinational training event conducted to prepare units for their deployment to the Kosovo Regional Command East.(U.S. Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Herschel Talley)

Lt. Col. Stephen Frodsham, 192nd Wing inspector general, retires from the Virginia Air National Guard after a career of more than 22 years, on April 1, 2023, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Aaron Webster, Marine Corps Recruiting Command national partnership engagement officer, and Staff Sgt. Ian Mills, an imagery analysis specialist, present awards to Halo Championship Series competitors at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla., on Sept., 25. Top players were presented with customized dog tags unique to their individual achievements. The Marine Corps emphasizes the importance of prompt recognition of an individual's achievement or service as it is vital to the morale of not just the individual but the entire unit.

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support for the National Memorial Day Observance at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, May 30, 2022. President Joseph R. Biden participated in the Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor wreath-laying ceremony hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.

030326-F-6701P-002. Base: Landstuhl Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

DM-SC-89-09676. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jason R. Cain, the sergeant major of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, explains his ribbons to a student from De Portola Middle School during the MCAS Miramar Single Marine Programs physical education fitness challenge at the school in San Diego, California, April 8, 2022. The Marines volunteered in the SMP event to promote physical fitness and maintain positive relations with the local San Diego community.

BM3(SW) Benjamin Rader, assigned to USS Oscar Austin (DDG-79) re-enlists aboard the decommissioned Iowa-Class Battleship USS Wisconsin (BB-64). Members of his family and command were present during the short ceremony. The ceremony was hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, one of ten U.S. Navy Museums within the Naval History and Heritage Command.

DA-SC-85-13004. Base: Rock Island State: Illinois (IL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, transport a simulated casualty to a command operating center during an Expeditionary Medical Integration Course (EMIC) on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 25, 2022. This is the third iteration of EMIC which validates the Marines of 1st Battalion, 4th Marines ability to provide a higher level of health service support capability in any operational environment.

A drill instructor from the Woman Recruit Training Command conducts a personal appearance inspection during basic training. Base: Usmc Recruit Depot,Parris Island State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

LOS ANGELES (May 26, 2022) Members of the Los Angeles Lakers cheerleading team greet Sailors assigned to amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Los Angeles Fleet Week, May 26, 2022. Los Angeles Fleet Week is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America's sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

A Joint Base Charleston Honor Guard member holds the U.S. Navy flag during the Opening Ceremony at the Titans of Flight Air Expo, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, April 9, 2022. The airshow showcases more than 50 aerial demonstration performances and static aircraft displays.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Speros C. Koumparakis, commanding officer, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, speaks to Sen. Mazie Hironos staff during a base tour at MCBH, Aug. 29, 2022. Marines with MCBH Headquarters, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, and Marine Aircraft Group 24, met with Sen. Mazie Hironos staff to increase knowledge of ongoing projects at MCBH, federal investment in Windward, Oahu, and an overview of the newly redesignated 3d MLR.

Assistant Secretary of the Navy G.D. Penisten speaks to Navy midshipmen at Murphy's Demo Range during a visit to the Marine Corps Development and Education Command. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

In 2018, Sam Short was diagnosed with spinal cancer. As part of the Make A Wish Foundation, Sam wanted a chance to stand on the yellow footprints at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island for a chance to earn the title United States Marine. From April 27-28, Short will complete a condensed boot camp alongwith a platoon of Marines in hopes of earning the honorary title of Marine. Short, who is 16 years-old, is from Columbus, Oh.

High school educators from U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Stations Springfield, Massachusetts and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania participate in a three day educators workshop aboard U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, Feb. 8, 2023. The educators participated in several events recruits go through during training, such as a phone call home during administrative processing.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guards 56th Striker Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, prepare to board a plane at Harrisburg International Airport on Jan. 1, 2024. The Soldiers are leaving their homes and families for about a year to deploy to Africa to support U.S. Africa Command and partner forces with security objectives in the region. Maj. Gen. Mark McCormack, the commanding general of the 28th Infantry Division, Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, the Deputy Adjutant General-Army, Command Sgt. Maj. Shawn Phillips, the State Command Sergeant Major, and other officials greeted Soldiers as they boarded their planes to leave Pennsylvania.

U.S. Marines with Recruiting Station Orange County participate in a reenlistment ceremony for Sgt. Jamir Walton at the Orange County Great Park of Irvine, Irvine, California on Oct. 1, 2022. A reenlistment is a major event in the career of an enlisted Marine that renders an appropriate ceremony to be held to honor their decision to continue to serve their country.

U.S. Army Pvt. Hannah Parmar is sworn into the Washington Army National Guard by Lt. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, I Corps commanding general, at the I Corps Headquarters Hall of Heroes on Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), Wash., Jan. 29, 2024. Parmar is enlisting as an aviation operations specialist with Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion 168th Aviation Regiment (GSAB), Washington Army National Guard.

U.S. Army 2nd Lt. David Crowe, left, an explosive ordnance disposal officer, renders his first salute as a newly commissioned second lieutenant to U.S. Army Master Sgt. (Retired) Christopher Crayton, right, during a commissioning ceremony held inside the auditorium of the Regional Training Institute at Camp Nett, Niantic, Connecticut, Sept. 6, 2022. The first salute, also known as the silver dollar salute, is a military tradition in which a newly commissioned officer renders their first salute as an officer to an enlisted soldier of their choosing, usually a noncommissioned officer who has mentored and guided the up and coming officer on their journey, and presents that soldier with a silver dollar coin as a sign of gratitude and respect.

U.S. Marine Col. Daniel Whitley, the commanding officer of Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, presents Dr. Jason Fowler, the principal of Bonsall High School, with a Purple Star award during the Bonsall Unified School District Purple Star designation ceremony at Bonsall West Elementary School in Oceanside, California, April 5, 2022. The school district earned the Purple Star award for their excellence in serving military-connected students. Whitley is a native of Massapequa, New York.

LGEN James M. Lee (right), director of the Army STAFF, presents the Legion of Merit, First Oak Leaf Cluster, to COL Charles F. Mullen, deputy to the director of the Army STAFF, and the White House Liaison Officer representing the Office of the CHIEF of STAFF of the Army ceremony at the Pentagon. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220729-N-XZ205-1043SAN DIEGO (July 29, 2022) Capt. Kim Davis, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos commanding officer, congratulates the Sailors of the Quarter during a ceremony at the hospital July 29. The recipients were Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Brandon Godette, Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Brittany Perrault, Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Charles Liggett and Hospitalman Genesis Navarro. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

Portrait Of Cadets In Russian Federation

Tech. Sgt. Ainsley Dewitt, left, U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific NCOIC of music performance team, and Senior Airman Alicia Cancel, U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific regional bandsman vocalist, sing Kimigayo, the national anthem of Japan, during the Japanese-American Friendship Festival 2022, at Yokota Air Base, Japan, May 21, 2022. Dewitt and Cancel sang the national anthem of Japan and the national anthem of the United States, Star Spangled Banner, to kick off a fireworks display to end the festivals first of two days. The two-day festival was an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the U.S. and Japan bilateral partnership, while strengthening the bonds between Yokota and the local communities. Yokota was able to host the event with the support of Japan Self-Defense Force, sister services and the local community.

Congratulations to the newly promoted Sgt. Billy Wong of Irvine, Calif. Sgt. 1st Class Jason Appleton of Los Angeles recommended Wong for promotion for his great work in the 419th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade, Transportation Support section. Wong oversees all the cargo from the 419th CSSB that leaves Camp Taji, Iraq.

Col. Carlos Caceres, 1st Mission Support Command commanding officer, and Col. Richard Aviles, 1st MSC deputy commanding officer, visited USAREC's booth and had the opportunity to engage with the students and recruiters.

220911-N-LZ839-1035 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 1st Class Rita Doakes, assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), speaks during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony, Sept. 11, 2022. Bataan is underway conducting an Afloat Training Group engineering inspection as part of the basic phase training cycle.

Cmdr. Richard Rosenbusch, from New Baltimore, Michigan, USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) assistant air officer, speaks with a local news station reporter following a wreath laying ceremony in honor of former President Gerald R. Ford and First Lady Betty Ford at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, September 1, 2022. Twelve Ford Sailors traveled to Michigan for the ships annual namesake visit to learn about the legacy of President Gerald R. Ford and connect with local community members in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Albion, Michigan.

Clemson University Army ROTC cadet Spencer Jones takes the Oath of Office during a joint commissioning ceremony in Tillman Hall, May 11, 2022. Clemson's Army and Air Force ROTC units held the joint ceremony to commission 33 second lieutenants into military service. Eighteen students received comissions into the Army, 14 into the Air Force, and one received a commission into the Space Force. After the ceremony the new officers recieved their first salutes during a Silver Dollar Salute ceremony in Military Heritage Plaza. (Photo by Ken Scar)

Marines with Marine Barracks Washington welcome Robert Gronkowski, retired tight-end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Donald Cowboy Cerrone, retired American Mixed Martial Artist, to the barracks on Jan 17, 2023. Gronkowski and Cerronewere both introduced and given a tour of the barracks by Col. Robert A. Sucher, commanding officer of Marine Barracks Washington, and Sgt Maj. Jesse E. Dorsey, Sergeant Major of Marine Barracks Washington.

Pensacola, FL - NIOC Pensacola held its monthly Awards Ceremony on 15 February 2024.

of 3